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- Tasks: Manage export ocean shipments and ensure all documentation is accurate and timely.
- Company: Dynamic freight forwarding company with a focus on teamwork and efficiency.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Office-based role with a structured work schedule and potential for career advancement.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced industry and make a real impact in global trade.
- Qualifications: Experience in export sea freight operations and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Export Sea Freight Operator is responsible for managing the end-to-end coordination of export ocean shipments, ensuring all bookings, documentation, and customer requirements are handled accurately and within agreed service levels. The role requires strong organisational skills, commercial awareness, and the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced freight forwarding environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare accurate and competitive export sea freight quotations in line with customer requirements and company margins.
- Receive, review, and process export bookings, ensuring all shipment details are complete and correct.
- Coordinate shipments with shipping lines, hauliers, warehouses, and overseas agents.
- Produce and check all export documentation, including Bills of Lading, manifests, and customs-related paperwork where applicable.
- Monitor shipment progress and proactively communicate updates, delays, or issues to customers and partners.
- Finalise shipment files, ensuring all costs are captured and profitability targets are met.
- Submit completed files and invoices to the Accounts Department in accordance with company procedures.
- Handle incoming calls and emails professionally, resolving customer queries in a timely manner.
- Maintain accurate records within the freight operating system and ensure full audit compliance.
- Support the smooth day-to-day running of the export department and wider office operations.
- Undertake any additional duties as reasonably required by management.
Key Skills & Experience
Essential:
- Previous experience in export sea freight operations within a freight forwarding environment.
- Strong knowledge of export documentation and ocean freight processes.
- Good commercial awareness and attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritise workload in a fast-paced environment.
- Confident communication skills (written and verbal).
- Proficiency in freight forwarding.
Desirable:
- Experience with LCL shipments.
- Knowledge of customs procedures.
- Experience liaising with overseas agents and shipping lines.
36.25 hrs per week office based. Mon-Fri 9am-17:15pm with 1 hr unpaid lunch.
Import Operator (Permanent) employer: E L Recruitment Solutions Limited
Contact Detail:
E L Recruitment Solutions Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Import Operator (Permanent)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the freight forwarding industry on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of export documentation and ocean freight processes. Be ready to discuss your previous experience and how it relates to the role of an Import Operator.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills! During interviews, share examples of how you've successfully managed multiple shipments or resolved issues under pressure. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Import Operator (Permanent)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Import Operator role. Highlight your previous experience in export sea freight operations and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your skills align with our needs. Keep it concise but engaging – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: Since the role involves handling documentation and shipment details, make sure to demonstrate your attention to detail in your application. A well-organised application reflects the skills we’re looking for!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at E L Recruitment Solutions Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of export sea freight operations. Familiarise yourself with the key documentation like Bills of Lading and customs paperwork. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re serious about the role.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires strong organisational skills, prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully managed multiple shipments or handled tight deadlines. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice your communication skills before the interview. You’ll need to convey complex information clearly, so think about how you can explain your previous experiences in a straightforward way. Role-play with a friend if you can!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the company’s operations or their approach to customer service. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and have done your homework, which can set you apart from other candidates.